CARSON CITY, Nev. — The Public Utilities Commission of Nevada today approved a trial smart meter opt-out program.
The decision allows consumers to receive a non-communicating digital meter instead of a smart meter. In addition, the commission adjusted NV Energy’s original opt-out proposal and approved lower rates for a one-time installation fee and recurring monthly charges for the alternative meter.
A non-communicating digital meter requires a manual reading once a month. Smart meters transmit data wirelessly in intervals throughout the day. The commission said the non-communicating digital meter better addresses customer concerns associated with smart meters, radio transmissions and the collection of interval data.
In Southern Nevada, the upfront installation fee is $98.75 for electric meters, with a recurring monthly charge of $8.14. In Northern Nevada, installation cost for electric meters is $107.66. The extra monthly charge is $8.04. Northern Nevada natural gas customers opting out of a smart meter will pay a one-time fee of $6.08. There is no ongoing extra charge for natural gas customers.
For additional information about the trial opt-out program, visit the PUCN’s website at puc.nv.gov. A Trial Opt-out Program link will be available later this week.
